The Guardian (And Evening Star, with Which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1938. ITALIAN ATTITUDE.

Hokitika Guardian, 23 June 1938, Page 4

The Guardian (And Evening Star, with Which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1938. ITALIAN ATTITUDE.

The desire of Italy to bring the agreement with Jiritn in into operation, presents a phase of the international situation which is of interest. It is evident that the closer association in trade is desired, but there is a vital clause in the agreement that to secure its consummation, Italian troops must he withdrawn from Spain. It can be realised that is a bargaining condition to Britain for there is much doubt as to tho ultimate occupation of Spain by foreign troops. It is highly important to Britain that an unfriendly Power should not be in. Spain, or indeed any Power, but its own Spanish nationals. Reports are rife that both Germany and Italy will he looking for rewards for their services to Franco. The Italians have done much fighting, and suffered heavy losses, and in addition Italy has no doubt poured in supplies of all kinds to succour Franco, The war has been disappointing to the insurgents, in that victory so often in sight has been snatched from them. Apparently Italy does not wish to leave till the job is done, or Germany might seek for extra reward. And there is the fact that Gorman troops are at tho dividing pass between acquired Austrian and Italian territory acquired after the Great War. Germany may or ma.v not be a menace to Italy in the event of any disagreement between the two Powers, but Italy would be glad to be in favour with Britain at the earliest opportunity. It would suit Britain also, but any undue haste before the agreed upon settlement is fulfilled would he a mistake. It would suggest for one thing that Britain wanted peace with Italy at any price, whereas the truth is that it must he on a bargain level affording equal advantages to both. The condition of affairs in the Mediterranean is material to Hritain, and it can be understood there is anxiety j to find a solution of the present threatened situation. The move for a settlement of the Spanish position can lx* quite understood, and if .both Italy ami Britain co-operate' in the movement, there is hone of an earlier > settlement of hostilities. Italy is piling up debt with her forces in Spain.

and any escape from that heavy liability would be a welcome relief. There is another British agreement that is tardy in completion. That is the trading relations with the United States. The latest official statement by Mr Cordell Hull is hopeful. That attitude of mind is due no doubt to the internal state of affairs in America. The President is not at the top of his fame now and a business stroke with Britain might help his Government at a time when there is rather more than the suggestion of a slump .in the States. Negotiating by agreement for a better understanding is certainly the happier way to a better condition of affairs between nations.